Using spin-quantum systems for images and atomic resolution structures: from Nano-MRI to Amyloids

"Principles and limitations for obtaining (classical) nano-meter-resolution images and atomic-resolution molecular stuctures of non-diffracting samples using  spectroscopic methods for (quantum) spins are introduced. Consequences for sensitivity and resolution will be discussed. Applications to magnetic-resonance force detection (MRFM) and solid-state NMR structure determination of fibrillar systems will be presented. Starting from atomic-resolution structure of amlyoids, e.g.atomic resolution structural model of HET-s, the investigation of the structure-function relationship becomes possible. We shall describe the binding of markers, dyes and drugs to the amyloid fibers. First results make it clear, that the interactions are more specific than expected. Changes in the pharmacophore of HET-s (e.g. by point mutations) lead to a change in the binding site and strength."
 
About the speaker: Prof. Meier is a senior Professor at ETH Zurich. Having done his Ph.D. from ETH, he did a post-doc in Los Alamos National Labs, before first joining ETH, and then Nijmegen. He returned to ETH as a full professor in 1998. Prof. Meier has made outstanding contributions in both solution- and solid-state NMR, enhancement of the polarisation, and magnetic resonance force detection. His research interests include new methods in solid-state NMR, theoretical concepts for the description of spin systems under time-dependent perturbations, study of glasses, amorphous polymers, fibrils, biopolymers and polymerblends with NMR.